Take Note

Cosby Show

The entertainer Bill Cosby is coming back to television—as the
producer of educational programs for the Philadelphia public
schools.

Mr. Cosby and the city’s School Reform Commission, which runs
the district, have formed a partnership to provide the programs on the
district’s cable television station, PSTV, Channel 52.

"He is a warm, caring, very smart, passionate man, and he has an
insight for change and implementation," said Cameron Kline, a spokesman
for the school district.

Mr. Cosby, 66, grew up in the city and graduated from Central High
School. He received a doctorate in education from the University of
Massachusetts.

Long known for his philanthropy in the African-American community,
Mr. Cosby on May 17 received an award at the NAACP’s celebration
in Washington of the 50th anniversary of the Brown v. Board
of Education of Topeka decision.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Cosby told the audience that "the
lower economic people are not holding up their end in this deal," and
he criticized some African-Americans for not helping themselves and not
actively raising their children. His remarks caused an uproar that has
since played out on newspaper editorial pages and elsewhere.

"We would never suggest that any race or class has a monopoly on
poor parenting, nor do I believe that this is what Dr. Cosby meant,"
said Cecilia Cummings, the executive director of communication services
for the Philadelphia schools. "But we have high standards for
parents’ involvement in their children’s education."

The district and Mr. Cosby plan to produce four programs:

"Bill Cosby Homework Club" will try to motivate students to study
and commit themselves to the academic process.

In "Test Preparation," the entertainer will record insightful and
humorous comments on the process of test-taking.

"Real Life TV" will explore issues such as school violence,
learning differences, homework, and health matters, told through
real-life experiences of Philadelphia students, teachers, and
families.

"Community Histories" will aim to inspire Philadelphia students
to gather information on the histories of their communities in a city
known for its neighborhoods.